If genetic tests show that you are at higher risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer, you and your doctor can discuss options for managing your risk.

The Affordable Care Act covers counseling about genetic testing for some women. Depending on your insurance plan, you may be able to get counseling at no cost to you. Talk to your insurance provider.

What do I ask the doctor?

Visiting the doctor can be stressful. It helps to have questions written down ahead of time. Print these questions and take them with you when you visit the doctor. You may also want to ask a family member or close friend to go with you to take notes.

What is my risk for developing breast or ovarian cancer?

Are there warning signs I can look out for?

Based on my family history, would you recommend genetic testing to learn more about my risk?

What are the benefits and risks of genetic testing?

What are my chances of having a mutated (changed) gene that could increase my risk for cancer?

What would a positive or negative test result mean for me?

If I have a mutated gene, what options will be available to me?

If I have a mutated gene, how could it affect my children's health?

If I have a mutated gene, what does that mean for other members of my family?

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Sunday, February 18, 2018